As I was deciding between buying from Carmina, SL, or Meermin knowing that Carmina's quality to be superior, I wondered about price point which isn't usually a topic of concern on this forum. The wealth displayed on SF is staggering considering the current recession. I need the names of all your financial planners............

The prices for USA purchase:
Meermin Low end - $220 with shipping and VAT discount
Meermin Middle - $330 with shipping and VAT discount
Meermin High end $ 439 with shipping and VAT discount

Septiemelargeur makes a nice, fully serviceable shoe- unfortunately they have nothin in 12uk. A US13D width in Alden Aberdeen, most AE lasts finds the Euro market scarce at that size. The owner of Septiemelargeur, as well as Betty fro Carmina and owners of stores like the Aurmory, say the demand is simply not there. Apparrently American males are a larger species.
As a Carmina devotee, I find no shoe comes close on price point. I own Lobb 7000 and 2 pair of Vass U and K last, Crockett 348 and 337--- all suberb but at those prices, they just don't compare.
Now enters Meermin, and they offer the same attractive advantage to Carmian as the above comparisons do . The price point quality and MTO options, are outstanding. Luisa and Pepe reply quickly, graciously and will suffer even the most detailed, tiresome questions with fresh patience.
No one compares to Meemin. I am officially an unpaid, un affiliated cheerleader. You cannot go wrong

I have been debating myself on those boots and think I am going to pull the trigger this week. They are a nice changeup from suede but just know the questions and befuddled looks when I answer "they're pony hair"- huh?
One thing I emailed Pepe about Friday was if he offered any "Bontoni like or light" antiquing under the MTO. I really don't want the played out toe burnish treatment. I would be willing to pay beyond what is in the price options in the MTO guide to get a nice antiquing of the whole shoe. He's so damn nice and accomodating, I hope to get a yes from him.